Using Retinal Tests to Detect Early Blood Vessel Problems in Women Aged 18 to 40 With Preeclampsia

What this Trial Is About

Pregnancy causes significant changes in a womans heart and blood vessels to support blood flow between mother and fetus. Preeclampsia, a condition linked to poor placenta function, often begins with high blood pressure and increases the risk of future heart and blood pressure problems. Detecting early changes in blood vessel health is important to provide proper treatment. This study evaluates a new, non-invasive eye test that examines the blood vessels in the retina to identify signs of blood vessel dysfunction in women who have experienced preeclampsia. Participants will undergo several vascular assessments including measuring arterial stiffness, pulse wave velocity, flow-mediated dilation, and retinal vessel response to light. All these tests are designed to study blood vessel function without invasive procedures. Women taking part will have vascular tests such as pulse wave analysis, ultrasound of the elbow artery during blood flow changes, and retinal imaging to see how blood vessels respond. Researchers will measure retinal biomarkers at the start to assess endothelial function. The study is sponsored by University Hospital, Antwerp, and will monitor participants from the beginning of the study period to detect early blood vessel changes after preeclampsia.

Identifying Biomarkers for Endothelial Dysfunction in Women With Preeclampsia